Archery Guru Archery Specialist

2010-01-29T23:00:00.001-07:00

2010-01-28T22:12:00.002-07:00

Send me your Archery Hunting photos!!!

2010-01-27T14:11:00.000-07:00

Send your photos and stories of your Archery Hunting adventures of this past season. I will post every story that I recieve in a special section entitled Archery Hunting Stories. Stay tuned for the link. Can't wait to hear about your successes in the Field. Also check out the archery guru store for Your Archery Hunting needs. Send all stories and entries to rlaw@royutah.org. Thanks for reading.

Late summer archery hunting can leave your thisty. Are you prepared?

2010-01-25T13:20:00.000-07:00

This week I have been reviewing items I use during my archery hunting backcountry hunts. I am going to keep this theme rolling with my review of the Katadyn Hiker Pro water filtration system. I purchased this product Just prior to my archery elk hunt in August. In past years I have always been an Iodine guy. They seemed simpler. less weight and less space to take up in pack. Although, as we all know while archery hunting that those hot august days can leave you dry to the one and so thisty you couldn't spit. This is where Iodine in my opinion just plain sucks. That Iodine taste is not so pleasant, and yes you can cover it up with some mix drinks, but sometimes when your that thirsty nothing but a good glass of water will do the trick.

One of the keys to being successfull during your backcountry archery hunts is being able to keep mobile. Gallons of water in your pack is just to heavy and will slow you down super fast. Having some sort of water filtration purifying system is essential for archery hunting in the backcountry. The Katadyn Hiker Pro was purchased for $74.95 at The Archery Guru Store. Upon arrival the Katadyn Hiker Pro came with the following items. Carrying case, pre-filter, main filter, tubing and cup nozzle. The filter was pre-assembled so I immediatley took to the sink and started messing around. The filter was very simple to use. One hose went into the water you were filtering, it had a prefilter to keep any large items out such as rocks or dirt. The hose also had a floating foam piece on the end just before the filter to help keep the filter off the ground in the water allowing a good clean suction area. Next, is the outlet hose which is equipped with a nozzle that I found will hook onto all nalgene bottles large or small mouth cups.  This feature is awesome.  It allows you to screw the nozzle onto the cup and then let the bottle rest, leaving you free hands for pumping and movement of the other hose.  Now the Katadyn works great in the sink, but how is it going to work while archery hunting the backcountry.

I took the filter on my first archery hunt of the season, a week long backountry hunt in central utah. I took no water in my pack just an empty bladder that fits into my badlands 4500 and a small nalgene bottle. I had mapped my water sources during pre season scouting. After Blowing a quick afternoon stalk on a beautiful bull I found myself down in the bottom of a canyon with a slow running stream. I pulled my filter out and gave it a try. As I was pumping my water I had another thought, if I was using my iodine tablets I could not use the source I was using right now. I would have to search for a little cleaner water because of all the sediments in the water. Anyway back to the filter, It performed flawlessly.

The katadyn Hiker pro will stay in my pack for years to come. It weighs hardly anything and is well worth a little extra weight.  The water taste great. My backcountry archery hunting experiences will never be the same. No more heavy bottles, and no more nasty tasting water. amen. The Katadyn uses replacable filters that will last you probably a couple years. Replacable cartridges can be found at any outdoor retailer store or right here at the Archery Guru Store. Thanks for reading, and remember that Archery Hunting season never ends, keep up the hard work.

The absolute must equipment for the backcountry archery hunter

2010-01-21T22:22:00.001-07:00

I  recently posted on my backcountry menu while archery hunting. While there are many important esseentials for your backcountry kitchen, I think the stove you will be cooking with is the most essential piece. There are many great brands of stoves on the market, and while I think that every brand has some good stoves, when looking for a stove to purchase I would focus on two brands, brunton and MSR. I have used both brands and would personally like to talk about my favorite, the MSR Whisperlite.

     The MSR whisperlite has been my stove of choice for some years now. While there have been some changes in stoves since the whisperlite has come out, the dependibility this stove has given me over the years has kept me sold. The whisperlite can run on white gas, kerosene, or jet fuel, leaving you with many choices. The stove uses a self purging pump that is durable and leak free. The pump is also self releasing keeping the fuel from leaking out when you take the stove apart. While backcountry archery hunting we all know that you may need to pick up camp quickly when that buck or bull is spotted. The whisperlite is great for this because it contains a unique shaking self-cleaning needle that allows it to clean itself while hiking just in case you didn't have time to clean it. The stove comes with a windscreen and deflector to help protect the flame during those windy archery hunts.    The stove top of the whisperlite is big in diameter yet folds into a very compact bag with tie that is literally 4 inches x 4 inches. The stove is light but durable. The one thing I like most about the whisperlite is that it requires tha MSR fuel bottle that is refillable.

     For all those that are looking to purchase a stove, make sure you look at all of the choices, specs, and pick the one that suits you best. Most importantly, get to know your stove, practice using it and even cook a meal on it before you go on your backcountry archery hunt. Scouting trips are an excellent time to try new equipment out also. I think most of you guys would agree that this time of year is when we prepare hard to make that next years archery hunting trip successful, and testing equipment should definately be a part of that. Good luck and be safe!

Under Armour Hunting clothing a must buy for archery hunting.

2010-01-14T19:22:00.000-07:00

This fall I decided to switch my camo clothing. I purchased Under Armour Heat gear. I had heard such great things about under armour and had always used their product while working out, but how would it perform while archery hunting?
I purchased the men's heat gear loose t-shirt for a base layer and also the men's cold gear camo zip long sleeve shirt for those brisk mornings. I ordered all in Real Tree AP. After recieving my clothing I immediately tried it on. It all felt great, and looked great. My first elk hunt this year consisted of a steep elevated climb for about 2 miles. Like most archery hunting seasons the temperatures were mild during the day, and cold during the mornings and evenings. Since the morning were brisk I started usually with both layers on. Usually this can turn into a big mistake. The body will start sweating and next thing you know your too hot, so what do you do shed that layer right. Now your freezing cause your base layer is soaked. The under armour material keeps this from happening. The design and material actually wicks away moisture keeping you dry and helping with scent also. This was perfect for that quick climb. I kept both layers on the entire way up the hill. I didn't overheat and didn't have to wast precious time changing in and out of clothing. The hot temperatures we endure while archery hunting can way a heavy toll on our bodies.
Overall the Under Armour performed above my expectations. Under armour may have started out as a fitness clothing, but isnt that what archery hunting is anyway? Don't let your clothing slow you down, get Under armour Today.

Food for the back country: My back country Menu

2009-12-27T22:13:00.000-07:00

During the off-season I think all of us hunters get a little stir crazy. This is the time that I use to reflect last years good and bad, as well as plan to better my self for next year. I thought I would share with everybody my back country menu. I put a lot of preparation into planning this every year. This year I endured a 15 day back country elk hunt. As most of you early season archery hunters know, the weather is hot most of the day, so you cannot stress the importance of proper nutrition enough. I have composed a list of my backpacking menu that may be able to help any of you beginner back country archery hunters, and maybe you experienced hunters can respond with some of your items.

Breakfast Ideas: Oatmeal ( I know kind of plain, but fills you up, very light, and easy to prepare)
                            Instant pancake mix ( Loaded with carbohydrates)
                              Cereal premixed with dehydrated milk ( one of my favorites. Just add water)
                            Pre-made breakfast burrito ( Usually only on the first morning for freshness)
Clif bars ( I usually end up eating these the last few mornings. They are loaded with
                              calories and carbs)

Lunch Ideas:        Summer sausage ( One of my favorite things while backpacking.)
                              Mountain House ( every body bad talks these things, but I love them. Loads of
                              calories and carbs)
                              Tortilla and canned ham ( MMMMMM)

Dinner Ideas:    Mountain House ( Like I said I love these things)
Instant mac and cheese ( So easy to make, good for carbs)
Quesadilla ( I make these with a tortilla and a can of spray cheese. I know it sounds
gross but is really pretty good)

Snack Ideas:       Summer sausage
                             clif bars
                             granola bars
                             Trail mix
                             dehydrated fruit
                             peanut butter bagels ( stay good for a few days)

Tips: If your addicted to caffeine like me make sure to bring something to curb those headaches. I use a green tea mix that has caffeine in it.
Try to plan out your menu in advance so you can eat the things that won't stay as fresh first.
Make sure you have a backup plan in case your stove quits working.

Well, thanks for reading. If any of you experts on archery hunting have any good ideas for back country staples I would love to hear from you guys.

RipCord Arrow Rest a sure bet for the serious Archery hunter

2009-12-09T20:10:00.002-07:00

I've chosen the Ripcord arrow rest for this weeks Archery Hunting gear review. Let me begin by saying that I was planning on going to this rest well before my review plans. Ripcords reputation for being the best rest out there is well known. I thought I would put this rest on my back up bow to try it out.

     Theres a few things I am looking for in an arrow rest. I need dependability, knowing that the rest will not move on me after installation. I want clearance, absolutely no fletching contact, and also how easy is this rest to install. Ripcord fits all of these requirements.  This rest is built for even the most punishable of Archery Hunters, has insane speed on the dropdown, and was a breeze to install.

     First I installed the rest on my bow. The rest bolted on great. The ripcord comes equipped with there patented football clip, wich allows even the begginer Archery Hunter the opportuntiy to install this rest on there bow.

     After installing the rest I began checking for the clearance issue. I put some lipstick on the rest and cage. after shooting a dozen or so arrows I found no streaks on the fletchings. This is an absolute must for someone serious about archery hunting. If your arrows aren't shooting straight, why bother.

     Finally I wanted to check the consistancy of this rest. After tuning the bow with a paper test I shot around 100 arrows. My Groups were absolutely amazing. I have always shot the whisker biscuit. Now keep in mind that I think the whisker is a good rest, but have always worried about the fletching drag or contact through the rest. I think this answered my question. The ripcord will soon be on my hunting rig, I can't wait!!!! Thanks for reading and stay tuned for the reviews and info on the latest Archery Hunting gear. Also remember to visit The Archery Guru Store for your Archery Gear.

The Archery Guru Store. Your Archery Hunting gear store

2009-12-04T23:11:00.000-07:00

Buy your Archery hunting gear here at the Archery Guru. Check out my link to the right for the best deals on the latest archery gear. I have everything you need from Bows to broadheads, arrows, and more. Need some advice, just check out my reviews. I will continually update with the latest Archery gear and hunting equipment you need to be the best archery hunter. Thanks for reading and keep hunting.

Archery Hunting and fitness. What do they have to do with each other?

2009-12-03T22:09:00.001-07:00

I just got back from my long run for the week. It felt great. But isn't this a site about Archery hunting? Well the truth is if you've been bow hunting you know what the two have to do with each other. I think that one of the biggest advantages to being a successful Archery Hunter is being in stellar shape. Being able to stay in the field all day, Out hiking your competition, and being able to carry out your harvest are the reasons I try to stay in shape.

     So what do I do to stay in shape? Now keep in mind there are probably many hundreds of ways to prepare for the backcountry, this is just what I do and I feel that it helps me become a better archery hunter.
I'll start off with my cardio regimen. During the offseason I like to run a couple marathons. I train for these by running anywhere from 4-20 miles a day. I run 5 days a week. I will try to do a short run then a medium run followed by another short one. At the end of the week I will run one long run that is usually around 15-20 miles. Now sure this prepares me for a marathon but will this help me be a better archery hunter, I don't think it can hurt. Now when my marathons are over around the end of may I try to use the same regimen but instead of the short runs I will add some stairclimber with a loaded pack intervals. This I think is huge in helping with the hiking we endure as archery hunters.

     I also think that weight training is very important. I think that its pretty obvious that as archery hunter lifting our legs is the most important. This can be hard especially trying to coincide with our runs. I try to lift my legs at least once a week, usually at the end of the week when im going to have a couple days off. Although legs are important I think it may be as equally as important to have a strong core. Days after days of wearing a pack can weigh on the body. I like to do a total body workout minus the legs twice a week. I like to work biceps, shoulders, back, and chest mostly using my own body weight type lifts.

    Now I know I'm no expert on fitness, but I feel like this is what helps me be a better Archery Hunter. I take pride in staying in shape and working as hard as I can to bag that buck or bull of my dreams. I love archery hunting and during a long offseason this is what keeps me motivated to keep going.

     So now ive shared what i do to stay in shape, its your turn. What to you do to become a better Archery Hunter? Thanks for reading and I hope to hear some comments.

Danner Pronghorn: Perfect boots for the serious Archery Hunter

2009-11-24T21:18:00.001-07:00

The Danner company has become the most trusted footwear in Archery Hunting, and for good reason. A pair of Hunting boots has become one of the hardest peices of equipment to find. You get a pair of new boots, they hurt, and you keep thinking, well they'll break in. Of course they never do and you find yourself miles in the back country with blisters rubbing every step u take, OUCH.

    This year I decided to try the Danner Pronghorn. I was first turned away by the Danner's because of high support. The conditions we endure while Archery Hunting are hot, and I was concerned with my feet getting too hot with such a big boot. The results were actually the opposite. This was not the case at all. The Danners were very cool and allowed my feet to breath rather nicely. I was also surprised by the mobility I had while wearing them. Most calf high boots make me feel constricted like I'm wearing a leg cast, but not these.

    There was not much break in time on these boots at all. I wore them for the first time in July while scouting for an elk hunt. Virtually the first time I put them on they were comfortable. I spent 17 days in the backountry averaging around 6 miles a day, with practically every weather condition possible. The boots stayed dry and warm when needed.

    I was also impressed on the quietness of the Pronghorns. I was able to get in the warm zone on some great animals without removing them. These boots performed well overall and I can say for sure that these boots will have to be falling apart before I will get rid of them. I recommend these to boots to any one that is a serious Archery Hunter. If your interested in purchasing these boots check out http://www.danner.com/ or click the link below for the best prices. Thanks for reading and stay tuned for upcoming reviews on the latest Archery Hunting Equipment.

Archery Hunting: Not for the weak

2009-11-19T22:50:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys, just thinking out loud here. I am sitting here with my Bow in hand going over every bolt, mechanism, and part. I realize that I am done with all my Archery hunts until april, so why am i obsessing over my Bow instead of sitting on the couch watching t.v. Ill tell you why, Because we are a different bread us Archery hunters. We spend the entire year obsessing over our gear, running miles after miles to stay in shape, and countless hours researching and scouting our areas. So why do we do this? I believe that the challenge of getting within Bow range of that once in a lifetime buck is what keeps us going. You can't just go out to the store, buy a Bow, and expect to go right out and kill an animal. There is a certain level of dedication required in Archery Hunting. Close encounters. that feeling of your arrow sailing over the back of that bull, and years of tag soup, are suprisingly what keep us going. We keep going because we learn and use these experiences to keep driving toward that goal. Well thanks for reading. got my bow all tuned up, now it's time to shoot.

Nikon Monarch 10x 42 Review: Archery and Hunting Gear

2009-11-18T23:40:00.000-07:00

Thanks for stopping by to read my latest in Archery and Hunting Gear Reviews. This week I decided to test out the 2010 model of the Nikon Monarch 10x42 binoculars. I would be demoing on a scouting trip planned for the weekend. I immediately noticed how light the Monarch was. There was not much neck pull being that I was using just a regular neck strap. Very Nice.

   After a quick look over the body of the binoculars, I immediately noted the Rubber, non-slip outer shell. This provides a sure, none slip grip, even in the wettest conditions, the exact conditions that we will be experiencing during Archery Hunting.

     The Nikon Monarch is also equipped with a quick central focus knob for fast subject acquisition. I felt like this was great for Archery Hunting considering that your usually trying to glass with you Bow in one hand.

     The Monarch's worked great in the field. I spent probably 5 solid hours behind them. I had no eye strain what so ever. I was able to glass up some great animals too by the way. For a relatively inexpensive binocular you cant go wrong with the Nikon Monarch

     After returning home, I read some of the specs. It was noted that the Monarch's were guaranteed for life in virtually any condition. You can't beat that. The glasses come in black or REALTREE all purpose Green HD Camouflage. I could not find a thing wrong with the Nikon's and would highly recommend them to the Archery Hunter on a budget. Thanks for reading and stay tuned for the latest reviews on the most popular Archery and Hunting products..

Nikon's Archers choice rangefinder:WEEKLY DEAL BUSTER

2009-11-16T23:52:00.001-07:00

     All right guys here is my first weekly deal buster. Nikons Archers Choice is by far the best designed and best functioning rangefinder designed specifically for the bow hunter. This rangefinder is offered in a 6x magnification, so its perfect for bow hunting. The clarity and sharpness that comes from this product is amazing
     The Nikon Archers choice also comes with the Nikon ID "angle compensating" Technology, this feature allows you to determine the actual horizontal distance to your target by taking into consideration the linear distance and angle. This feature was easy to use and worked flawlessly. The ID worked up to 89 degrees.
      Finally Nikon has brought us a rangefinder designed solely for us, archery hunters. The Archers choice has really impressed me and will be in my list of gear for next year.

     I have enclosed the link for the Nikon Archers Choice below. After a week of shopping around this is e far the best deal around. Check it out and thanks for looking.

WEEKLY DEAL BUSTER

2009-11-14T13:19:00.000-07:00

Thanks guys for the Emails!! I'll continue to review the latest archery and outdoor products. Coming up soon I'll be introducing my Weekly Deal Buster. I'll review the product and Give you the link to the greatest archery deals out there. Thanks again for the feed back and keep visiting the site.

Rage 2 blade mechanical broadhead WOW!

2009-11-11T20:57:00.002-07:00

I shot the Rage 2 blade expandable today. I have never been sold on the mechanical broadheads, but that may change if Rage has anything say about it. I started my testing by shooting 100 shots at a regular broadhead target with the practice head that was included. They shot great, and were easy to pull out of target. My accuracy was not affected at all.
        I used my next test to check the strength of the broadhead. For this I would be using a 1/2 inch plywood sheet. I shot approximately twenty shots at the sheet. I found that the broadhead was giving me a complete pass through as well as penetration into the target behind. There was damage to the blades but that is to be expected. The blades were deploying fully at the point of impact and I had a hole measured at 2.5 inches. Wow!
                                                            The Rage has some interesting features to speak of. It uses their patented slip cam rear blade deployment system that helps keep power and energy through impact. The steel is made from aircraft grade aluminum. All in all The broadhead performed great, leaving me unsure on what broadhead ill be using this year. I think I'll finally make the switch to mechanical. Check this product out along with other rage products out at http://www.ragebroadheads.com/

2009-11-10T22:00:00.002-07:00

The Badland 4500 by Badlands packs set the goal.

The badland 4500 has done it again. This is the best pack I have ever used, The 4500 hundred beats all when it comes to comfortability. This year badlands has incorporated the fold out mesh pocket which is used for meat hauling while maintaining space for the rest of your gear. I personally used this pack this year and will never switch back. I was able to haul and entire cow elk 5 miles out by myself. There was minimul shoulder pull and the vented back kept me cool. Two thumbs up for the badland crew. Check out my link to badlands.

weight: 7 lb 13 oz

capacity: 4800 ci

pockets: 5

sizes: med or lrg